Goblin Valley State Park is a perfect display of geologic history. The exposed cliffs show layers of rock that have been uncovered by erosion. Some parts of the sandstone are harder than others, so they resist erosion better. The softer rock is worn away by wind and water, leaving behind thousands of unique rock formations, known as goblins. Wind and water continue to shape these goblins over time.
Because the soil is thin and there isn’t much vegetation, the bedrock is exposed. When it rains, there aren’t enough plant roots or enough soil to absorb and hold the water. Instead, the water quickly runs off in muddy streams without soaking into the bedrock.
Cowboys searching for cattle were the first to come across the unique landscape in the hidden Goblin Valley. In the late 1920s, Arthur Chaffin, who owned and ran the Hite ferry, and two companions were exploring a new route between Green River and Caineville. They reached a viewpoint about a mile west of the Valley of Goblins and were amazed by what they saw: five large buttes and a valley filled with oddly shaped rock formations, all surrounded by eroded cliffs.
In 1949, Chaffin returned to the area he called Mushroom Valley. He spent several days exploring the mysterious valley and photographing its scores of intricately eroded creatures. The area was acquired by the state of Utah and in 1964 was officially designated a state park.
It opened to the public as a state park in 1964.
Park Elevation – 5,000 feet
Things to Do in Goblin Valley
Valley of Goblins Observation Point – best viewpoint to see the park and the goblin formations
Hiking
Stan's Burger Shak in Hanksville, Utah
John Wesley Powell River History Museum in Green River, Utah
Stargazing – designated International Dark Sky Park with some of the best dark skies in the world
Vacation Home Lodging Accommodations Near Goblin Valley State Park
When visiting Goblin Valley State Park in southeastern Utah, plan to stay a couple of days to fully explore everything the park has to offer. A great place to stay within a 90-minute drive from this geological wonder – and the perfect 'home base' for families, friends, or groups – is our luxury vacation condos at Sage Creek at Moab, Utah.
Sage Creek at Moab Resort is the perfect spot to base your day trip adventures. With over 100 luxury condos available in a beautiful resort setting, Sage Creek offers top-tier amenities like a stunning tiered pool with waterfalls, a grotto hot tub, a clubhouse, and poolside fire pit lounges. As the newest and finest option for group stays near Goblin Valley in southeastern Utah, it’s ideal for reunions, golf trips, weekend getaways, hiking, jeeping, off-roading adventures, or exploring the Mighty 5 National Parks. Enjoy privacy while still gathering everyone in one place. We accommodate families and groups of all sizes. Call our reservations team or book online today.
-9EA3E1D9-E697-4258-9508A895026C43F2.jpg "Goblin-like hoodoos at the Goblin Valley State Park")
